Cairns touted as potential base for Trump visit

If the new American President attends the APEC summit in Papua New Guinea next year, Trump and his Air Force One jet could touch down in Cairns.


He was only sworn in a few days ago, but new US President Donald Trump is already rumoured to be visiting Cairns en route to a world leader's conference in Papua New Guinea.

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit is being held in Port Moresby in November next year, just an 85 minute flight across the water from Cairns.

With America among the 21 member countries of APEC, speculation is already heating up that Air Force One could be based in Cairns during the summit.

A News Corp report on the speculation reads: "Queensland may be the first Australian state to host new US President Donald Trump next year, with Cairns a potential base for Air Force One during nearby APEC meetings.

"Twenty-one world leaders will convene in the Papua New Guinea capital of Port Moresby in November next year for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit.

"But with cruise ships likely required to host leaders and their delegations due to a shortage of hotel rooms, it’s understood Cairns may be called on to house Air Force One as the closest international airport that can cater for the impressive aircraft."

The last visit by a US President to the Tropical North was Bill Clinton back in 1996, when he famously spent some time relaxing in Port Douglas with First Lady Hillary by his side.